The TEDxCongaree Vista speaker application deadline is less than one month away!

We’re thrilled that you’re interested in getting involved with TEDxCongaree Vista! Whether you're applying to speak, volunteering, attending, or collaborating, your support means the world to us. This event wouldn’t be possible without the incredible energy and enthusiasm of our growing community.

Help Us Spread the Word

We’re counting on you to help amplify our reach. Know a friend, coworker, mentor, or peer who might be interested in TEDx?

Whether it’s:

• Purchasing a ticket
• Becoming a sponsor (corporate, individual, or business)
• Applying to speak
• Becoming a volunteer
• Or just staying in the loop...

Every share makes a difference. Please help us spread the word by sharing our interest form below in any relevant Facebook groups, student org chats, group texts, or professional networks.

Stay Connected for Live Updates

While this newsletter is a great way to receive major updates, we’ll be posting more frequently on social media. Be sure to follow us for behind-the-scenes content, speaker announcements, deadlines, and more:

• Website: www.tedxcongareevista.com​
• Instagram: @tedxcongareevista​
• LinkedIn: TEDxCongareeVista​
• Facebook: TEDxCongareeVista​

​​​​

TEDxCongaree Vista Speaker Applications Are OPEN!

We’re officially accepting applications for speakers at our inaugural TEDxCongareeVista event, happening February 2026 in Columbia, SC!

This year’s theme: ChangeMakers

We’re seeking visionary individuals transforming their communities through bold ideas, meaningful action, and a relentless commitment to driving positive change, whether in health, education, technology, the arts, advocacy, social entrepreneurship, or beyond.

Have an idea worth spreading? We want to hear from you.

You don’t need to be a professional speaker, just someone with a bold, authentic story and a powerful idea rooted in real experience.

Key Dates

• Applications Open: August 1st, 2025
• Deadline to Apply: September 15th, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST
• Interview Notifications: By September 22nd
• Virtual Interview Period: September 23nd – October 10th (~40 applicants selected)
• Final Speaker Selection: Notified by October 15th
• Speaker Coaching & Workshops: Fall 2025 – Winter 2026
• Event Date & Location: February 2026 -- Downtown Columbia, SC

Before You Apply:

The first page of the application includes everything you need to know about the process, evaluation criteria, deadlines, and speaker expectations. Be sure to read it all carefully before submitting your responses.

Let’s celebrate local ideas with the power to inspire global change. We can’t wait to hear yours.

​

​Apply Now!​

​

Share the application link: https://forms.gle/gDhegYjwZhVTrwH49​
​Questions? Reach us at speaker@tedxcongareevista.com

⚠️ Please Note:​
Even before publicly launching speaker applications, over 150 individuals had already expressed interest in speaking at TEDxCongareeVista. We are committed to a fair, thoughtful, and thorough review process, guided by a clear rubric aligned with TEDx standards, our theme, and overseen by a vetted, experienced, and professional curation panel.

If you are not selected, please know that it is not a reflection of your worth or the value of your ideas. Due to limited speaker slots, some powerful talks may not make the final lineup. We appreciate every submission and deeply respect your time, passion, and vision.

Other Information

Want to Attend?

• Tentative Event Date: Saturday, February 28th, 2026 (± 1 week)
• Location: Downtown Columbia, SC
• Tickets Go On Sale: November 1st, 2025
• Tickets will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis and capacity is limited
• Virtual viewing will be available with no capacity limits
• Speakers, volunteers, and production team members will not need to purchase tickets
• This mailing list will receive priority ticket info -- please encourage others to join!

Want to Join the TEDxCongaree Vista Production Team?

We’re actively recruiting passionate individuals to join our team!

• Applications now open on a rolling basis.
• To apply, fill out the production team application: https://forms.gle/59kfAiPiMUR4kyu56​
• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis
• Any questions? Email team@tedxcongareevista.com​

Want to Be a TEDxCongaree Vista Sponsor?

TEDxCongaree Vista is made possible by passionate community members and mission-aligned partners. We're actively seeking local businesses, corporations, organizations, and individuals who want to support bold ideas, community connection, and civic creativity in Columbia, SC.

As a sponsor, you'll receive:

• Brand visibility across marketing materials, social media, and event signage
• Exclusive access to networking opportunities and ticket bundles
• A chance to support thought leadership and innovation right here in the Midlands

If you or your organization are interested in partnering with us, email: sponsorships@tedxcongareevista.com​
We'll send over our official TEDxCongaree Vista Sponsorship Package with details on tiers, benefits, and how to get involved.

Spots are limited -- we’d love to have you on board as a founding supporter!

Want to Be a TEDxCongaree Vista Speaker Curation Panelist?

We’re assembling a team to help identify, review, and select speakers whose ideas will shape our event. The commitment includes attending regular meetings, reviewing applications, conducting interviews, and collaborating with the team to curate an inspiring lineup.

Interested? Reach out to speaker@tedxcongareevista.com to learn more.